Donald Michael Prues

Don is the son of Margaret (nee Fathman) and the late Donald E. Prues and was the ninth of their 11 children: Marlene Prues, Donna (Andrew) Conlon, Jim (Diane) Prues, Jerry (Denise) Prues, Larry (Donna) Prues, the late Judy Prues, Betsy (Red) Kretten, Johnny (Sherry) Prues, Michael (Molly) Prues, and David (Amy) Prues. He was devoted to his large extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws, nieces, and nephews as well as many lifelong friends. He is married to Jen Lile, whom he met while working at F&W Publications in the mid-90s as an editor.

Don earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Xavier University, where he began teaching English courses full-time in 2003. He was dedicated to his students’ learning and development inside and outside the classroom. He was known for spending hours helping students with papers, supporting them through difficult personal issues, and sharing his life experiences honestly and openly. Don stayed in touch with many former students and would often receive emails from students years after their graduation to thank him for the important life lessons he taught them.

Don’s love for travel, camping, hiking, and exploring began early in his life, with many road trips to National Parks in the west. Red River Gorge and Big South Fork were favorite nearby destinations he enjoyed solo or with family and friends. He and Jen had many adventures together, including a 6 month backpacking trip through Europe and 10 days in the Galapagos Islands. Don would often just show up unexpectedly when family members were on vacation, leading them to tease that he was “never invited but always welcome.”

Don was passionate about studying neuroscience and was always trying to better understand how the brain worked. He was curious about everything, loved having deep discussions with strangers and friends alike, played guitar, sang Taylor Swift songs loudly, and would do anything to help anyone in need.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2020 from 10 AM to 12 PM at Holy Trinity Church, 2420 Drex Ave, Norwood. A memorial mass will follow for immediate family only. We feel terribly that we cannot include and invite everyone, but the church’s capacity is extremely limited due to their observance of social distancing requirements.

Don was committed to increasing awareness of and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Donations can be made to Xavier University, in memory of Don Prues, which will support the University’s mental health services. Gifts can be made online or by sending checks to:  Xavier University, University Relations, 3800 Victory Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45207.

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